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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Life Event

In the final days of December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.